Leah Berenson
Leah Berenson
February 16, 2024 ·  5 min read

CEO Shares the No. 1 Question to ‘Never Ever’ Ask at a Job Interview

Jobs are incredibly stressful. Having to work as much as the average American takes a toll on one’s mental health and can negatively impact the dynamic of their household. More than that, stress starts from the very beginning, the initial job interview. People spend hours in preparation for that first meeting. They read books, study sample interviews or practice with peers. Therefore, knowing in advance, the do’s and don’ts of the process can be invaluable and a CEO, recently, shared some helpful advice, from their years of experience.

Avoid the “Remote Policy

It’s no secret that we are in the midst of uncertain times. Inflation, housing shortages, and decreased available jobs, such as Walmart’s recent announcement to lay off thousands of employees. As such, the competition among workers will likely continue to rise, becoming more and more ruthless. However, Matt Higgins recently shared that his number one helpful hint for a successful job interview is to avoid asking about the company’s “remote policy.” Although there are huge benefits to a hybrid or remote position, Higgins warns that on the verge of a potential economic crisis, “landing a job in this soon-to-be cutthroat job market will require some finessing and compromising.”

Most people have come to really enjoy the option of being home full or part-time. However, according to a survey taken last year, around 78% of managers were found to prefer at least some in-office work. Meanwhile, 51% of managers agreed that their companies would likely consider “pay cuts” for those unwilling to return to work.

Jobs May Require Physical Presence

Several CEOs, including Elon Musk, have noted a belief that productivity has been negatively impacted by full or even hybrid remote work opportunities. Higgins explains that although he’s not totally against remote or hybrid positions, the question is “an immediate red flag” during a job interview. It signals to potential employers, that your priorities are not aligned with the company’s, you may not be a team player, or you may be less committed than other potential new hires.

If working remotely or hybrid is essential to you, Higgins suggests doing some investigating prior to the job interview. Looking at the company’s website or social media pages can offer some potential insight. He also suggests waiting until you’ve gotten a call back about the job, to ask about the company’s policy for working remotely. He’s not the only CEO with some common red flags and concerns that arise during a job interview.

Job Interview Don’ts

According to Forbes, here are five other hints to avoid during the initial job interview process.

  1. Do not ask for feedback at the end of a job interview. Asking for feedback in a job can show an employer how seriously you take this job, that you’re open to constructive criticism, or that know how to take incitive. However, many perspective employers find it to be “off putting and inappropriate” during the job interview.
  2. Do not “admit to not doing the research.” Be sure that you’ve taken time to get to know the company’s policies, mission, and what role is required to do the job for which you are applying. This shows perspective employers that you’re dedicated and committed from the start.
  3. Do not “claim you’ve never made a mistake”. Doing so shows potential employers that you’re unable to acknowledge and take responsibility for your own actions.
  4. Do not ask why the current job is available. Doing so can put the interviewer in an awkward position, if they didn’t voluntarily share that information from the beginning.
  5. Do not act less than enthusiastic. Perspective employers want to know their employees are enthusiastic about working for the company. This includes ensuring your body language and tone are just as convincing as the words you’re trying to convey. Appearing genuine gives the potential employer a sense of trust and confidence in you.

Stressful Job Interviews

According to psychologist Jeff Comer, job interview stress has several negative effects. Firstly, there is a severe sense of vulnerability during a job interview. Everything is out in the open for prospective employees to judge and form opinions quickly. Next, the effects of “evolution on our brains” plays a role. Because our brains still operate as though we are in survival mode and living in the wild, accepting a new job symbolizes a sense of community and safety within our “evolutionary brain.” Furthermore, leaving one “sense of community” for a new one can cause severe distress and uncertainty.

Relaxing for a Job Interview

While a job interview is stressful, being prepared can help to relieve some of that anxiety. One Career Guide suggests listening to music before and after a job interview, visualizing yourself as a success, and eating well to help alleviate some of the nerves associated with a job interview. Other suggestions include choosing and trying on clothes before the day of, taking deep breaths, and staying actively present and engaged during the job interview. Doing so will make a good impression and help you remember details as you go through the inevitable run down in your brain after a job interview.

Making it in life is a challenge for everyone, and we constantly learn as we go. Therefore, mistakes are frequently made. It’s important to be as prepared as possible, keep a positive outlook, and always do your best during a job interview. These small steps will begin to create a fuller and more beautiful picture of success.

Keep Reading: Man Instantly Rejected From Job Interview After Failing Trick Test At Reception

Sources

  1. The effects of stress when interviewing.” Psychology Today. Jeff Comer Psy.D. June 18, 2022.
  2. CEO shares the no. 1 question to ‘never ever’ ask at a job interview-‘wait until you’re called back’.” CNBC. Matt Higgins. April 13, 2023.
  3. The great return: Survey of managers reveals return to office battle in 2022. Good Hire. Sara Korolevich. April 04, 2022.
  4. Council post: 11 things to never say during a job interview.” Forbes. March 30, 2021.
  5. How to conquer interview anxiety (plus 12 techniques) Indeed. Editorial Team. November 2, 2022